The Atlanta Braves, who are currently leading the NL East division despite major starting pitching problems, made a move on Sunday to acquire a veteran starting pitcher that they help will stabilize their troubled rotation.
The Braves struck a deal with the Baltimore Orioles for left-handed starter Tommy Milone, acquiring him in exchange for two players to be named later.
Milone, a veteran journeyman starter, was named the Orioles’ Opening Day starter in 2020 and hasn’t disappointed for a surprisingly competitive Baltimore team. The lefty is 1-4 in 6 starts for the Orioles but has a solid 3.99 ERA and has struck out 31 batters in 29.1 innings pitched.
The Braves, who are without staff ace Mike Soroka after he suffered a torn Achilles tendon as well as veteran starters Felix Hernandez and Cole Hamels, have had trouble finding good starters this season outside of de facto #1 starter Max Fried. The team is 23rd in starters’ ERA in the MLB this season with a bloated 5.16 ERA.
Milone is expected to slot in behind Fried as the team’s #2 starter, with the Braves still left to decide who will fill the other three spots in the rotation.
The Braves’ new starter is expected to make his debut with the team this week.
